ℚ Hand Over Fist: Out of Hand [1] - Michael Ross

"A great first novel by Michael Ross. I was gripped from the start. The characters are varied and interesting, the plot is exciting, and everything ties up neatly and cleverly at the end. Overall, a thoroughly good read. Looks like this is the first in a series so I am now waiting the others!" - Wolfwatcher, Amazon Reviewer

"Michael Ross' short stories have been my introduction to his writing and I loved them....so I couldn't wait to give this full novel a try.Thoroughly enjoyed it, gripped me from the start and I can't wait for the next one in the "Out of Hand" series.A new author to me and I'm glad I found his work." -Paul Bilton, Amazon Reviewer

A very warm welcome to fellow Brit Michael Ross; thank you for joining us on BooksChatter!

What was the inspiration for Hand Over Fist?

"It started out as a short story in one of my anthologies, but I could not get the protagonist out of my mind, where was he going to go with his life, was there any hope for him"

How much of yourself is reflected in this book, and how?

"The three main characters, Martin, Pin-up and Bobby are invested with large chunks of my DNA."

The first thing that draws me to a book is its cover. Can you tell us about your cover for Hand Over Fist - why you chose that concept and who the artist is.

"The publishers designed the cover, I personally do not like it, but I bowed to their business acumen and desire for the book to succeed."

Why should we read Hand Over Fist and what sets it apart from the rest? What makes your book unique?

"The second in the series is already 'in the can,' and is released before the end of the year.. I was in business for thirty plus years before I started writing, I have a wealth of experience of mixing with the rich and famous, and the dregs of society. I think my character are believable because they are real. The pace in the story picks up as it approaches its climax which readers seem to appreciate."

Can you tell us something quirky about Hand Over Fist, its story and characters?

"Xenon, who is the enforcer controlling the Chemist's sleazy underworld is very much a real person, and I have not even changed his name. Readers seem to take to him (anyway that's what I'll tell him if he ever comes across the book.)"

Who would you recommend Hand Over Fist to and what should readers be aware of (any warnings or disclaimers)?

"Any one who enjoys read a fast paced thriller. There was one scene where I wanted to drive home how vile one of characters was, so even though the scene is not graphic I found it disturbing to write."

If you could / wished to turn Hand Over Fist and the Out of Hand series into a movie, who would be your dream team?

"I really like Ben Affleck's work as a director. Dominic West as Bobby, Ruth Wilson as Hannah. In and around Bath, England."

What do you like to write and read about? Do you stick to a particular genre or do you like to explore different ones?

"I love writing short stories (well over 100 written) and then exploring what is left outside the text of that story, prodding around until a novel evolves"

What is your writing process?

"Rush out the opening 3k -5k words and then walk and think. Create a scene which might or might not fit into the chronological order of the book, but write it anyway. If it fits great , if not store it away for another day."

What is in store next?

"Three more books before the end of the year. A feel good romance due out in July Chasing What's Already Gone, another short story anthology and by the end of the year the follow up novel to Hand Over Fist entitled Out of Hand."

And as a final quirky thing, to get to know you a little bit better... do you have a pet or something that is special to you that you could share with us?

"Our rescue dog Wolfie is a very special part of my life."

Hello Wolfie! You are a lovely boy :-) Lots of head scratches to you from all of us at BooksChatter!